Sustainability Initiatives
Academic Collaborations
F&S invites all faculty, students, staff, and community members to partake in academic collaborations with us. Through this program we will strengthen the bridge between the organization and the various academic interests on campus. With our guest lecturers, large amounts of data, professional experts, and research collaborators, we are excited to enable a supportive learning environment throughout the university.
Sustainable Transportation
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) is a strategy aimed at reducing the number of cars on campus.The TDM Coordinator works with Sustainability staff to promote active transportation, including bicycling, using the MTD, and walking. F&S also is proud to be the first college/university in the state and Big Ten Conference to earn NAFA sustainability accreditation.
Resilient Grounds and Landscapes
The University Landscape Architect is responsible for the oversight of campus exterior spaces, in alignment with the Campus Master Plan. F&S Grounds is responsible for maintenance of 968 acres of campus trees, plants, and lawns.Currently, F&S is working with academic colleagues to develop a Resilient Grounds Strategy.
Zero Waste and Recycling
The Waste Transfer Station at F&S handles over 7,000 tons of waste materials each year. Through the recycling program at F&S, approximately 20% of this waste is diverted from landfills each year.
Clean and Renewable Energy
There are several solar installations on campus property. In 2015, F&S coordinated a wind power agreement with the Rail Splitter Wind Farm in Lincoln, Illinois. In 2016, F&S assisted with the installation of a demonstration biomass boiler at the Energy Farm, and currently discussions are underway about using geothermal for utility-scale needs on campus.
Energy Conservation and LEED Certifications
In 2007, F&S began the extremely successful Retrocommissioning (RCx) program, and in 2014 the Recommissioning (ReCx) program was started in order to maintain the savings achieved. F&S also worked with the University Systems Office to establish the Energy Performance Contracting program, which has saved over $3M in annual energy costs so far. All new buildings on campus are required by state law to meet LEED silver certification.
Green Rainwater Infrastructure
One of the primary sustainability aspects included in the 2017 Campus Master Plan Update is green infrastructure (GI). This includes permeable pavements, bioswales, rain gardens, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting and reuse, with cisterns and/or rain barrels. F&S is working to identify all existing installations on campus, and to upgrade the Facility Standards and policies related to Green Infrastructure. F&S is also responsible for the campus stormwater management program for compliance with the Clean Water Act.
Sustainability Education and Behavior Change
F&S employees participate in and help lead the monthly Champaign County Sustainability Network (CCNet) brownbag luncheons for promoting sustainability programs and facilities in our community. On campus, F&S promotes sustainable behavior through incentive programs, competitions, and community events like Boneyard Creek Community Day.